Virgin Islands Boat Rental
Pirate’s Paradise Adventures
Where Virgin Islands Boat Rental Means ”Arrrrrr ‘N Arrrrrr!” (R&R)
Everyone’s idea of the perfect Virgin Islands Boat Rental day is different, so we’ll work with you personally to create the kind of experience you want to have. We don’t have any pre-set agenda that limits your time in the locations you choose–the day and the experience is entirely yours! However, being seasoned pirates, we can certainly help to plan your day based on our own experiences (don’t worry–they’ve replenished the rum by now) and past guest favorites.
Keep in mind that you want to have a few different ideas in the event that weather or water conditions affect your trip. Because of the islands’ proximity to each other, one place may have calm seas and clear skies, where just a few hundred yards away, the seas may be a little rough and the skies a little cloudy. In addition to being a great captains, our guys double as a weather man, and they can guide you to the best sea and weather conditions possible to make your day perfect. Please let us know when booking if you need to be back by a certain time to meet your cruise ship, make your dinner reservation, etc. Here’s a few agendas to consider, categorized by the kind of day you’re looking for:
No, it doesn’t make you a lush to plan a day of going from beach bar to beach bar…especially in the Virgin Islands. That’s because the bar experience here isn’t really just going to a “bar”–it consists of sandy beaches, swimming, sunbathing, games, good food, delicious drinks, nice people and amazing scenery. Everyone is welcome, and all are kid-friendly during the day. These are the world’s best beach bars!
Soper’s Hole
After boarding Red Beard or Black Beard and settling in for a beautiful ride, you’ll head to the customs office in the BVI’s that’s closest to your selected agenda. You night clear customs at Soper’s Hole, which is a gorgeous little on-water village that’s home to Pusser’s Bar and Restaurant—with some of Tortola’s best food—and a fully stocked Pusser’s Company Store. You can pick up a few souvenirs…including a bottle of Pusser’s Rum to take back state-side with you and enjoy if you decide to stop there. Or, you might clear customs on White Bay, relaxing at Foxy’s with a drink in your hand or in a hammock while your captian handles the paperwork. Where you clear customs can affect the places you visit.
Smuggler’s Cove
If you clear customs at Soper’s Hole, consider taking a short ride to Smuggler’s Cove, on the north side of Tortola to Nigel’s Beach Bar and Grill. Smuggler’s Cove is the quintessential Caribbean beach, with a crescent-shaped white sand beach, tranquil waters, and the best bar in the Virgin Islands–Nigel’s. There’s no dock, so get ready to swim into shore! The water in this bay is calm and clear, so it’s a great place for some snorkeling and Nigel even rents waater sports toys if you’d like to try kayaking.
Because there’s no water or electricity on the beach, Nigel has concocted an ingenious set up–his monster blender is powered by a generator, and his fish, shrimp and chicken is brought in fresh daily. Best of all, Nigel’s is the home of Pirate’s Paradise Adventures OFFICIAL cocktail–the Pirate’s Paradise Poison. This special blend of three kinds of rum and three types of fresh fruit, plus special spices and a few secret ingredients only Nigel knows is absolutely the best tropical cocktail in the world. The food is better than you’ll find anywhere else in the world, but if you’d like to have lunch here–and we HIGHLY recommend it–let your captain know know. He’ll call ahead and Nigel will have your lunch on the grill when you arrive. Relax on the beach, go for a swim, do some snorkeling, eat to your heart’s content, enjoy a libation and Nigel’s company. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Sandy Spit
If you can tear yourself away from Nigel’s–and many of us can’t (don’t worry–he’s replenished the rum by now)–we suggest that you consider a visit to Sandy Spit next. This little slice of heaven is uninhabited, less than an acre in size and is ringed by a stretch of sandy beach and just two coconut palm trees at it’s center–but it’s surrounded by some of the most amazing coral reefs that make for great snorkeling. Sandy Spit has been featured on magazine covers, in movies and of course, is rumored to be the site of those amazing Corona TV commercials. It’s a great place to lay on the beach or snorkel. It’s also the perfect place to take that photo for Facebook—your friends will be incredibly jealous!
After some time at Sandy Spit, we suggest heading over to White Bay, where you can do a variety of things. White Bay is home to Foxy’s, Soggy Dollar, and One Love–all very famous beach bars, but each with a different vibe.
Foxy’s
Foxy’s is great because of the man himself–Foxy Callwood–who is there 9 times out of 10 to tell you a joke (ask him the one about the island dog), sing you a song, or regale you with fantastic stories of his life. Foxy is actually “Sir Foxy” or “Lord Callwood,” as he was honored by Queen Elizabeth II in 2009 by being inducted as a Member of the order of the British Empire (MBE), for his countless contributions to tourism in the British Virgin Islands and efforts to preserve the heritage of his homeland, but don’t call him either, because
he’s not about titles. You’ll understand after you meet him! Gather around a table in the sand, climb into a hammock, or poke around the gift shop…whatever you’d like to do!
The Soggy Dollar
Just down the beach from Foxy’s is Soggy Dollar, located about dead center of White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. It’s called the Soggy Dollar because most people arrive by boat, and there’s no dock, so you’re swimming in. Don’t forget to load your pockets with some cash to try the “world’s best conch fritters,” chicken root, jerk chicken or a flying fish sandwich….and wash it all down with a
Painkiller, rumored to have been created here at Soggy Dollar. Some say that its illegal NOT to try the BVI’s most famous drink….but they ain’t be heard from since, so you decide! The bartenders will hang your “soggy dollars” on a clothesline behind the bar to dry before burying them in the till. This is a great place to try the Ring Game, made famous hundreds of years ago by pirates, passing the time on ships as they traveled from pillage to pillage. There’s always music, sometimes live, and usually a volleyball game on the sand. It’s a lively place to meet some great people, and a great place for the kids.
One Love
You might also choose to stop at One Love Bar, on the western edge of White Bay. Owned and run by master magician Seddy Callwood (and Foxy’s son), this bar is open all day–and closes when the sun goes down! Seddy pours a mean drink (ye beware!), pulls a great card trick and even claims he can read your mind. Can he? Judge for yerself!
The Willy T
By now, the sun is beginning to slip gently into those warm Caribbean waters, but if there’s time, and you do NOT have anyone under the age of 18 with you, you might consider a quick drink at the Willy T. The Willy T is not for the faint of heart…it gets wild in the afternoon. This floating 100 ft still schooner has three stories (well, millions of stories if only a ship could talk) and is home to total hedonism. Famous for the 4 Shot Water Ski and body shots, anything goes on the Willy T. You can even get a free t-shirt, if you jump naked from the top deck to the waters below (google it if you don’t believe us!).
You might not have time to get to every place listed, or you may be having too good a time to leave your favorite place. It’s all good…just let the captain know your choice and he’ll do the rest. Now, we always ask that–like all Pirates–you drink in moderation, and at your own risk. Arrrrggggggghhhhhhh!
If snorkeling is your bag, you’ve come to the right place. The waters of the Virgin Islands are teeming with aquatic life that you’ll never see anywhere else in the world. You’ll see an abundance of corals, fish, rays, dolphins, turtles, lobsters, starfish,conch and yes, even sharks. There are over 400 different species of fish alone in these waters, and during winter and spring months, you’ll see dolphin and whales as they migrate north for the summer.
Waterlemon Cay
So, where to begin? Well, at Waterlemon Cay, on the north side of beautiful St. John. Since you’re still in the US Virgin Islands, there’s no need to clear customs just yet. Grab a loaner set of snorkel gear from Red Beard’s collection and jump in! Waterlemon Cay–not Watermelon Cay–is home to sea turtles, rays, hundreds of different types of colorful fish and an unbelievably beautiful coral garden. The best way to Waterlemon Cay is by boat–it’s a long swim from shore–so it’s not typically crowded. Visitors often say snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay is a “once in a lifetime” experience.
Norman Island
From here,it’s onto the BVI’s to enjoy some legendary locations. After clearing customs, head for Norman Island some amazing scenery and snorkeling. Locally known as “Treasure Island,” (a favorite among Red Beard and Black Beard’s treasure-hungry crew), Norman Island is believed to have inspired the classic story by Robert Lewis. The Bight at Norman Island offers great snorkeling over the seagrass where turtles eat, or on the reef at the south end of the beach.
The Caves
Around the lower tip of The Bight, you’ll find The Caves, which are not to be missed! The northernmost cave goes back a good 70 feet into darkness, so if you’ve got a waterproof flashlight and a strong constitution, now’s the time to use both to find the secret markings on the cave walls. Who knows….could be they point to buried treasure (which, if you find, you agree to split equally with your captain–it’s in the contract). Shine your light on the walls to see the gorgeous purple and rust color and deep veins in the above water walls. At the back of the cave is a small room….which may be home to pirate’s treasure. The southernmost cave has a rounded rock bottom where you can stand, and a natural skylight makes for good visibility. In all cases, watch for surge so you don’t get thrown against the rocks.
Indians
Next stop is Pelican Island, where you’ll find rock formations known as “The Indians.” Check out “The Fish Bowl”on the east side, where you’ll see damsel fish, blue tang, and even colorful flatworms, but ye BEWARE! The Indians are known for strong currents, so ye better be a strong swimmer if you decide to brave the underwater tunnel. This is a very popular spot with the group boats, so the captain will time your visit so you avoid swimming in traffic–there’s nothing worse!
You could literally spend hours exploring this amazing outcropping of 4 rocks; they go as deep as 40 feet down and about 30 feet up, and from a distance, they resemble an Indian head dress; hence, the name! Three rocks are joined together, the fourth is separated by a narrow channel where a myriad of fish, crustaceans, jellyfish and corals make their home. Careful here–there’s a tide between these rocks and you don’t want to get pulled into the walls!
After snorkeling the Indians, take a quick ride around the corner to Pirate’s Bight, the only building on Norman Island, for a delicious lunch of Chicken Roti. The service is a little slow, but the food is great. If time is an issue, the captain can recommend some great places based on what you’re hungry for.
Salt Island
After lunch, head to Salt Island. It’s about a 45 minute ride, but the prize is so worth it. Off Salt Island lies the remains of the RMS Rhone. Once the pride of the Royal Mail Steam Company, she sunk in 1867 during a hurricane after hitting a rock and splitting in half. 
Today, she rests in three pieces on the floor of Davy Jones’ Locker, and her steel hull has become home to a thriving coral reef, sponges, tropical and colorful fish…even rays. Much of her decking, rigging, steam engine and propeller can easily be seen by snorkelers, although this spot is one of the world’s most famous dive spots. Scenes from the movie “The Deep” were filmed around the RMS Rhone wreckage. She’s been voted the #1 wreck to dive in the Caribbean time and time again.
Depending on the weather conditions and the mood of the sea, you may want to adjust this agenda to maximize your fun. Your captain can help to select the perfect snorkeling locations based on the day.
No passport? No worries………..there’s so much to do and see on the US side on your Virgin Islands Boat Rental, you won’t be able to fit it all in one day.
Water Island
We’d recommend that you start at Water Island, the newest member of the four US Virgin Islands. Just off the coast of St. Thomas, you’ll love Water Island’s star attraction, Honeymoon Beach. Coconut palm trees line the shore and the water gently rolls on shore. Because the island is small and the only way there is by boat, the crowds are pretty much non-existent. There are coral reefs, sea turtles and colorful parrotfish everywhere you look, and on the beach, there’s a couple of bar and grills where you can grab a drink or snack, and the whole Water Island vibe is one of seclusion.
Magen’s Bay
After leaving Honeymoon Beach, travel around the west side of St. Thomas to beautiful Magen’s Bay. Magen’s Bay Beach has been voted over and over again as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful beaches, offering a half mile loop of soft white, pebble-free sand, calm waters and a beautiful view of the mountains that protect this bay from erosion and strong waves. With warm, calm, crystal clear waters, Magen’s Bay is an ideal spot for swimming. A spot on the beach will cost you a few pieces o’ eight ($4 per person), but the restrooms are clean and there is waitress service while you lay on the beach with your toes in the sand. Service fit for a King!
Coki Beach
Next, set sail for Coki Beach. The water is teeming with tropical fish, a soft sandy bottom and gorgeous reefs, thanks to its proximity to Coral World, a marine life theme park featuring underwater observatories and educational exhibits. Coki is known for some of the best snorkeling in all the Caribbean sea and should not be missed!
From Coki Beach, cross the short channel to St. John, where each beach and bay is more beautiful than the last. St John stands out among Caribbean snorkeling areas because of the variety of spots and of sea life. You could literally boat along the coast for a week, snorkeling different bays each day and never duplicate your experience. 
Our first recommended stop is Waterlemon Cay. Because it’s difficult to get to by land, it’s almost never crowded, and the waters are usually calm, so it’s a great stop for less experienced snorkelers. Here, you’ll find Hawksbill turtles, stingrays, colorful fish, beautiful corals and even starfish.
Trunk Bay
Trunk Bay is a must for any snorkeler. A part of the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay offers a self-guided, 206m-long (675-ft.) snorkeling trail with large underwater signs that identify species of coral and other marine life. 
We recommend you try the snorkel early in the day to avoid the crowds. You can swim to shore here and relax on the sand, enjoy some lunch from the snack bar and even pick up a souvenir from the gift shop.
Cinnamon Bay
Want a little more secluded beach? Head to Little Cinnamon Bay, just west of Cinnamon Bay. At Little Cinnamon, snorkelers can find the remains of an old Cessna aircraft that crashed and sank some years ago. The propeller, the engine and one of the wings are visible most of the year. 
The wreck is in shallow water, so the reefs formed around it are easily visible from the surface.
These are just a few ideas to get your agenda planning started. Choose one of these agendas, or mix and match locations to make the most of your time aboard Red Beard or Black Beard. If you’d like even more ideas, read on!
The Baths, Virgin Gorda
Head to the British Virgin Islands and start at The Baths on Virgin Gorda. An amazing formation of rocks, its believed they are proof of volcanic activity on the island. As you crawl, climb and through the labyrinth of rock formations, you’ll find grottos and shallow wading pools with beauty unmatched anywhere else in the world. The trick is to find the many treasures The Baths hold, like secret beaches. A trip to Virgin Gorda is worth the time it takes to get there–it’s about 25 miles from St Thomas, so it may reduce the number of other places to see and snorkel if you’ve got a return deadline, and of course, it will add to your fuel costs.
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas (East End)
Take a short hop over to St Thomas and snorkel Sapphire Beach, where you’ll find a grassy bottom bay covered with sea turtles and rays. You’ll see a small island called “Shark Island” or “Little Shark Island” where you’ll find a conch graveyard, lobsters and yes….maybe a friendly local shark or two! Don’t worry ’bout the sharks…any friend of the Pirates is a friend of theirs! Just keep your distance and don’t piss em off.
Lindberg Bay, St. Thomas
Lindberg Bay is perfect for relaxing. It’s also ideal for small kids as the water is shallow and there’s even a playground nearby. The beach is almost never crowded, and you can rent umbrellas from the hotels.
Hawksnest Beach, St. John
Hawksnest Beach is a local’s favorite and the closest beach to Cruz Bay. White sand and easy tides make Hawksnest great for families, and of course, its great for snorkeling. There’s a shallow water reef just a few yards off the center of the beach to see orange elkhorn corals and an abundance of friendly sea creatures. Not to worry–no beasties here!
Caneel Bay, St. John
Caneel Bay is a great choice for a more active beach day, but expect some crowds. Home to the Caneel Bay Resort, where you can feast at one of the hotel’s seaside restaurants, and tour the estate’s old sugarmill ruins, which have been partially restored.
Foxy’s Taboo & The Bubbly Pool, Tortola
If yer heading for British waters, where the world’s best beach bars rest on the world’s best beaches, a visit to Foxy’s Taboo Restaurant at Diamond Cay in Jost Van Dyke is a must. After a few libations, hike on over to the Bubbly Pool and relax in nature’s jacuzzi. The rock formation funnels waves through a very narrow passage into this small natural, fully contained pool. Just wade in and the waves will do the rest!
Long Bay Beach, Tortola
Just east of Smuggler’s Cove on Tortola’s West End is Long Bay Beach. This one is easy to get to by land, so expect more folks to be joinin’ ya. There’s a big coral reef at the shore near the resort, so be careful while swimming. Nigel himself is an awesome islander with a great attitude and a big heart. Nigel’s is the home of Pirate’s Paradise Adventures OFFICIAL cocktail–the Pirate’s Paradise Poison. No possibility of contracting scurvvy after one of these fruity libations!
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Jimmy Buffet sang it best when he wrote “I hear it gets better, that’s what they say, as soon as we sail onto Cane Garden Bay.” Cane Garden Bay is an excellent swimming beach, but not much for snorkelers. This is one of the BVI’s most popular beaches, so expect some crowds. It’s the perfect place to do nothing all day.
Brewer’s Bay, Tortola
Brewer’s Bay is the home of peace and quiet, with very few crowds due to treacherous roads. Easiest way in is by boat, but due to underwater electrical cables through the cove, you’ll have to swim in while we wait for you in an anchor-safe area.
Mix & Match The Best of The Above or Map Yer Own!
Reserve Your
Virgin Islands Boat Rental
Now!
Call Toll Free (855) 550-8728